Yes, gambling is legal in Chicago, but with specific regulations and restrictions. Illinois law permits various forms of gambling within Chicago's city limits, including casino gaming, sports betting, and lottery games.

The most notable development is the upcoming Bally's Chicago Casino, which received approval in 2022 and is set to open its temporary location at Medinah Temple in 2023, with the permanent location scheduled for 2026. This marks Chicago's first full-scale casino.

Here are the specific types of legal gambling in Chicago:

- Casino gaming (slots, table games)
- Sports betting (both retail and mobile)
- Illinois State Lottery
- Horse race betting
- Video gaming terminals (in licensed establishments)

However, there are important restrictions to note:

- You must be 21 or older to gamble at casinos or bet on sports
- You must be 18 or older to play the lottery
- Online casino gaming is not legal
- All gambling must occur at licensed venues or through authorized platforms

For sports betting, Chicago residents can legally place bets through licensed mobile apps while physically located within Illinois state borders. Popular platforms include:

- DraftKings
- FanDuel
- BetRivers
- PointsBet

Gambling venues must maintain strict compliance with both Chicago municipal codes and Illinois state regulations. The Illinois Gaming Board oversees all gambling activities and enforces regulations to ensure fair play and prevent problem gambling.

It's worth noting that while gambling is legal, there are resources available for those struggling with gambling addiction. The state maintains a self-exclusion program and provides access to problem gambling services.

For the most current information on gambling regulations or to verify a venue's license status, I recommend checking the Illinois Gaming Board's official website or consulting with a legal professional.

Remember that while gambling is legal, it's important to gamble responsibly and be aware of the risks involved. Always set limits and only gamble what you can afford to lose.

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